Switch on to festive fun - where to see the lights near you

TOWNS MARKING COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

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Arnold's Christmas tree lights will be turned on outside the AMP building

THE countdown to Christmas officially begins with the switching on of the lights in Nottingham city centre and towns and villages across the county.

Christmas markets and entertainment will get events off to a merry old start, and don’t be surprised if Father Christmas puts in a few appearances. Mulled wine and maybe a mince pie or two will be consumed too, with spectacular firework displays.

Most - but not all - of the switch-on ceremonies are organised by local councils.

There's one in Nuthall taking place in residential streets, where the homeowners have really gone to town with charity decorations.

Here’s a roundup of events:

The city centre doesn’t have an official switch-on ceremony any more as Old Market Square is taken over by Winter Wonderland. But if you're out around 4pm tomorrow, you might see the towering Christmas tree lit up at the official opening.

The Christmas tree lights will be turned on on Friday, November 21, at 6.30pm outside the AMP, just off Front Street. From 4pm, there will be live music from schools and choirs, street entertainment and a visit from Santa.

A Christmas market in the town centre will be in full swing from noon until 7.30pm, perfect for present shopping and festive food and drink stalls for some added winter warmth.

Saturday is the date of the switch-on in Beeston Square at 5.30pm. The fun kicks off at noon with a Christmas market and festive fairground and a visit from Santa at the library from 1pm to 5pm.

Live entertainment starts at 4.30pm and the event will finish with a bang as fireworks are let off at 6.30pm.

The switch-on takes place on Friday, November 28, with entertainment from 5pm to 8pm and a Christmas market in Market Place.